Macbeth

In 1603, James VI of Scotland ascended the English throne, becoming James I of England. London was alive with an interest in all things Scottish, and Shakespeare turned to Scottish history for material. He found a spectacle of violence and stories of traitors advised by witches and wizards, echoing James&#8217;s belief in a connection between treason and witchcraft.<BR> <BR> In depicting a man who murders to become king, <I>Macbeth</I> teases us with huge questions. Is Macbeth tempted by fate, or by his or his wife's ambition? Why does their success turn to ashes?<BR> <BR> Like other plays, <I>Macbeth</I> speaks to each generation. Its story was once seen as that of a hero who comm